The Sling Is The Thing

by
posted on March 19, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
cb315b_75c1222f127348f8a56e554aeb452d72jpg_srz_400_300_75_22_050_120_000_jpg_srz.jpeg

In the course of setting up numerous rifles, I’ve found that the choice of sling can be a critical one-and one that should be complementary in a number of ways. A good sling can be an invaluable aid to accurate shooting in the field, but a bad one is nearly useless.

As far as appropriateness to the platform, a thick, stiff leather “cobra” style probably isn’t a good, or necessary, fit on a superlight rifle. By the same token a thin 1” nylon strap likely won’t feel all that great on a dangerous game rifle. My own rule of thumb is to use 1” slings on rifles weighing around 7 lbs. or less and 1¼” slings on those that are heavier. High-quality leather, such as those from Turner Sadlery for service or precision rifles, or nylon, such as those from The Wilderness, are hard to beat.

Other considerations are format-Ching sling style, Rhodesian sling style (check out Andy's Leather), military style or simple carry strap style-and fittings; HK-style snap hooks, mash hooks, push-buttons or conventional QD studs. All can affect a rifle build or the decision as to which sling to buy, particularly if the fittings are permanently attached. By the way, another great one to consider is Brownells Latigo sling-just do youself a favor and order the model with pre-installed swivels!

Latest

Ruger Rxm Gotw 1
Ruger Rxm Gotw 1

Gun of the Week: Ruger RXM

On the surface, the RXM appears to be similar to the Glock G19-inspired selection of striker-fired, polymer-frame pistols on the market, but a closer look reveals that there's much more to this modular design.

Rifleman Q&A: How Frequently Should You Clean?

AN NRA member and his brother have identical rifles. One brother cleans every time he shoots. The other cleans every 100 rounds. Which barrel will last longer?

The Armed Citizen® March 20, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

NRA Launches New Official App

The National Rifle Association proudly unveiled its new official NRA App today, marking a significant milestone in enhancing member engagement and delivering convenient access to essential NRA resources on the go.

How the Security Team at Temple Israel Stopped a Terrorist

The terrorist attack on Temple Israel, in West Bloomfield Township near Detroit, Mich., was over fast, thanks to a security team that was well-prepared.

RevolverFest & The State of the Modern Wheelgun

Why, in a world of micro nines and omnipresent striker-fired polymer pistols, does the revolver seem to be enjoying a mini Renaissance?

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.